Pioneering the canine model in microbiota–gut–brain research for social and affective disorders

This commentary highlights the translational potential of canine models in investigating the microbiota–gut–brain (MGB) axis, focusing on their relevance to human social cognition and affective disorders, including major depressive disorder and autism spectrum disorder. While traditional rodent models provide foundational knowledge, the unique socio-behavioral complexity of dogs offers a potential bridge to study the shared neuroendocrine and microbial substrates underlying human psychopathology. This commentary outlines the promising avenues for canine-based research while critically addressing the practical limitations inherent in generalizing these findings to human populations, including genetic heterogeneity, standardization challenges, and ethical considerations. We propose a phased research pathway incorporating fecal microbiota transplantation and neurobehavioral phenotyping to define a clear trajectory for future translational research. Leveraging this canine platform creates a One Health paradigm, delivering mutual diagnostic and therapeutic advancements for both human and veterinary medicine, with applications for conditions such as anxiety and gastrointestinal disorders.